Man claiming to be ex-bobby tries to force South Yorkshire couple to buy products at their door

Police have given advice over bogus callers.

Published:11:48Thursday 28 January 2016

A man claiming to be a former police officer tried to force a South Yorkshire couple to buying door locks he was selling - by telling them their home would be broken into if they didn’t buy his products.

Details of the incident have been released by South Yorkshire Police to warn residents to be on their guard against cold callers.

Andy Foster, a community safety officer, said: “This individual used aggressive sales tactics to try and scare the vulnerable residents into buying his product.

“While this may not be a criminal offence in itself, we are concerned that elderly or vulnerable residents are being intimidated by people hoping to gain access to their homes, or scared into purchasing items or services they don’t need.

“I’d reiterate our advice to any residents with concerns about someone cold calling at their door. If you want to validate their identity or speak to their employer, they should provide you with this information and allow you the time to make these checks.

“Always close and lock your door while doing so, and don’t hesitate to ask these questions. Do whatever you need to do to feel safe.”

South Yorkshire Trading Standards officials have been notified of the incident.